Magnificent Malcolm memorial ball raises thousands for Beatson Cancer Charity

Nicola Robertson has raised an incredible £114,000 for Beatson Cancer Charity in honour of her late grandfather Donald Malcolm, founder of the Malcolm Group.

In May this year, Nicola, who also works for the family business, organised a memorial ball to celebrate the legacy of her grandfather, one of the most hard working and respected businessmen in the Scottish Road transport industry, and at the same time, raise vital funds for Beatson Cancer Charity.

Nicola said: “I’ve organised balls before, which have been a success and I really enjoy doing it, especially as the money is going to deserving charities.

“This time I wanted the money raised to go to Beatson Cancer Charity. I know people who work there and also people who have had treatment there, so wanted to recognise the fantastic work they do.”

Guests enjoyed a three-course dinner, music from the Red Hot Chilli Pipers and an auction featuring magnificent prizes. Thanks to generous donors, guests had the opportunity to bid on a trip to New York, exclusive use of an executive box at Old Trafford, diamond jewellery and much more.

Speaking about the huge sum that was raised on the night, Nicola said it was completely unexpected.

She added: “We managed to raise £70,000 at the last ball I organised, which is a lot! So I thought if we could do that again I’d be pleased. I did not expect to get £114,000.

“All of the donors and guests made reaching that total easy. The generosity was incredible. I couldn’t believe some of the prizes on offer.

“It was such a special night with so many people who knew Grandpa sharing their stories and memories of him.”

The Malcolm Group can be traced back to the 1920s, where the small family owned enterprise began with assets of just a single horse and cart, and its operation involved collecting coal from the nearby railway station for door-to-door deliveries.

Donald inherited the coal business from his father, and through his hard work and determination made it the family business it is today.

Donald sadly passed away in 2003 after a long, brave battle with mouth cancer, but his legacy and memory continue to live on through his family and the Malcolm Group.

The outstanding total raised on the night was donated to Beatson Cancer Charity. The money will go towards supporting and enhancing the treatment, care and wellbeing of current and former cancer patients and their families.

Beatson Cancer Charity chief executive, Graham Soutar, said: “We are extremely grateful to Nicola and the Malcolm family for their incredible support and considerable donation. And what a spectacular way to do it – a stunning ball in memory of her grandfather.

“This vital funding will go towards caring for current and former cancer patients and specialist services provided by the charity.”

Through its unique and award winning Wellbeing Centre, The Beatson and cancer treatment facilities across the west of Scotland, Beatson Cancer Charity delivers a wide range of specialist services and provides significant funding to benefit those affected by cancer, and to support those involved in cancer care and research.

It also funds specialist staff, including nursing, radiography and research-based posts, as well as for novel research projects, educational initiatives, innovative service developments and enhanced medical equipment.